Article Today, Hyderabad:
Following serious allegations against certain fertility and surrogacy centres like Srushti, Health Minister Damodar Rajanarasimha has ordered a thorough investigation. He directed top officials to examine the role of government personnel and medical regulatory bodies in enabling such illegal activities. The Minister emphasised the need for immediate action to prevent recurrence and punish the guilty.
Violations of Surrogacy and ART laws
The government has received reports that several IVF clinics and assisted reproductive centres are violating the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021, and the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act. These include unregistered operations, lack of transparency in sperm donation, and irregular surrogacy arrangements. The Minister has called for urgent corrective measures.
High-Level Committee to Lead Probe
To ensure a detailed inquiry, the government has formed a high-level committee. The Health and Family Welfare Commissioner will chair the panel. Members include the CEO of Aarogyasri and the Director of Medical Education. The committee will inspect all private IVF clinics and fertility centres across the state, verifying their legal compliance.
Key Responsibilities of the Committee
The government has issued clear instructions to the committee. It must review clinic operations, registration documents, patient consent forms, and sperm collection protocols. The team will also examine past complaints, FIRs, and previous actions taken against such centres. Furthermore, it will suggest steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Ten-day Deadline for Report
The committee has been asked to complete the investigation and submit a report within ten days. Based on this report, the government will decide on further action. Officials confirmed that the committee has the authority to summon any individual or expert required for the inquiry. Clinics found guilty may face licence cancellation and legal action.
Exploitation of Rural Women Through Camps
Investigations revealed that Dr. Namrata, the key accused, conducted medical camps in rural areas. These camps were allegedly used to target poor women and trap them into surrogacy deals. Reports indicate that babies were sold illegally under the guise of surrogate births. Victims were deceived and left without legal or financial protection.
Involvement of ANMs and ASHA Workers
Police revealed that the accused took assistance from local ANMs and ASHA workers. These health workers reportedly helped lure women and facilitate illegal activities. Two suspects, identified as Kalyani (A3) and Santoshi (A6), are said to have played crucial roles. They allegedly coordinated the trafficking of newborns. The police continue to investigate the wider network involved.
